Only In Bozeman

Mainly known for being one of the best skiing spots in the U.S. as well as the biggest, Big Sky has an extraordinary summer experience that rivals that of winter.

The town and resort host a variety of exciting activities and events going on throughout the entire summer, which is why many guests turn into repeat visitors of the area. Before you start planning your trip, be sure to check out the city's event calendar for concerts, markets, rodeos and more that may be happening during your stay.

This summer is shaping up to be one for the memory books. Understandably, we are all collectively ready to hit the road and explore. If you’re planning a visit to Bozeman, knowing how to navigate around town is key to maximizing your vacation time, so we’ve put together a quick guide to help you plan your transportation appropriately.

When it comes to floating the rivers around Bozeman, there are plenty of options. From guided fly fishing and whitewater rafting, to kayaking or canoeing, each river showcases different features at different points, but one thing they all have in common is breathtaking experiences.

While Bozeman is home to beautiful hotels, guest ranches and bed & breakfasts, you may find yourself wanting to spend a night sleeping under the stars when visiting the state known for its big sky. Not much can compare to cozying up next to a campfire and wondering at the blankets of stars overhead before climbing into your sleeping bag and drifting off to sleep.

Montana summers aren't long, but they can get hot. There is nothing better than spending a day at the lake or catching an afternoon dip on a hot day. From local ponds to scenic mountain lakes, there's no shortage of water bodies to cannonball into when you need to cool off. So as the temps heat up, we've gathered up a few of our favorite swimming holes for you to explore on a hot day this summer in Bozeman. 

In 2021, the Fourth of July is back on again in Montana, and we couldn’t be happier. With vaccines becoming accessible and COVID-19 cases dwindling in the state, many Fourth of July events are taking place this summer after a year of hiatus. Whether you choose to attend an event or get together with a few close friends, there are plenty of ways to celebrate in the Bozeman area. 

Summer in Montana is rodeo season. Every town, big or small, has one, and each brings its own flair and feel. Attending a rodeo is a great way to experience and celebrate Montana's culture, with entertaining cowboys and cowgirls, concerts and other rowdy, foot-stompin,' hand-clappin' events.

Bozeman hosts its own rodeo — the Bozeman Stampede — for one weekend in August, and there are plenty of other rodeos in the area to check out. Small-town rodeos can really be a blast because the whole town gets excited for their annual chance to show off their Montana heritage. Here are a few of the best Montana rodeos near Bozeman to put on your calendar.

It's that time of year — outdoor patios and rooftop decks are opening up, and there is a buzz of energy around town. As the days get longer, more people will linger over leisurely dinners, soaking up the warm weather and enjoying lively conversation. Bozeman has no shortage of outdoor dining, and with mountain ranges in every direction, the views are often stunning. Here are the best restaurants and bars with outdoor seating in Bozeman. 

Montana is the kind of place that makes all of your summer dreams come true. Paddleboarding on a clear, alpine lake? Check. A crackling campfire under a blanket of stars? Got that. Two National Parks and endless mountain hikes? Yup.

The list could go on and on, but we tried to narrow it down to the top 10 things to do in Montana in the summer.

Undeniably, the mountains are one of Bozeman's main draws. Deep in these forests, you'll find pristine alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, towering peaks, and gorgeous wildlife. Mountaineers began flocking here in the 1970s for skiing, rock climbing, and backpacking, hungry for the lifestyle.